Autumn can be one of the best seasons to fall back into your running routine (see what I did there?)! With all the fall races coming up – i.e. the bRUNch Run, Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon, New Terrain Brew Run, and any of the holiday runs – it’s a good time to get back into some good old-fashioned LISS Workouts.
Unfortunately, sometimes it can be hard to find motivation. One thing that KILLS my vibe is running downtown during a series of red lights. But if you’re with a group, it’s easy to stay motivated! Plus, you’ll have people to chat with at those pesky red lights.
If you’re into making new friends and even discounts on food and beer, a Denver running club may be an excellent option. Check out these free running groups for a little extra cardio motivation:
Belmar Run Club
For those of you in the ‘burbs, join this group for a run along the Belmar Lake Trail on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.. Generally, raffles and free pints follow this sweat sesh.
Life’s 2 Short Run Club
This is an all women’s group, lead by local trail running and OCR (Obstacle Course Racing) expert and coach, Lauren Jones. The foundation is adventure, fun and education. If you ever wanted to learn how to trail run (the right way), or if you want to get ready for an OCR (Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, Warrior Dash…), this is a great way to get started! There are affordable paid programs as well as monthly free social runs, brewery happy hours and fundraisers for their nonprofit partner, Free the Girls. Check the event listing on the Life’s 2 Short Facebook Page for free runs.
Wahoo’s Run Club
The best way to celebrate Taco Tuesday is to join the Wahoo’s group every Tuesday night at 6 p.m. Did I mention the run is followed by free tacos (aka the best kind of tacos)?
Denver Beer Co. Run Club
Also on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m., meet at the Arvada OR Riverfront for a 5k run, walk or jog. Come early for some stretching and stay late for a free pasta dinner. Carb loading is important, no?
LoDo Highlands Run Club
This Meetup group gathers at 6:30 p.m. on Hump Day for a run followed by snacks and drinks at Avanti. You choose the distance! And seriously, you can’t go wrong with Avanti.
Highland Tap Run Club
This year-round (a rare find!) run club meets for runs through LoDo and the Highlands for a 4-mile loop on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy free pasta and salads plus 20 percent off beers! Newbies: arrive early to fill out a waiver.
Runner’s Roost Run Clubs
This running store chain offers run clubs at many of their locations! Great option if you’re not in downtown, but don’t worry, there’s a Denver location, too. Check their site for times and dates in locations like Aurora, Lone Tree, Lakewood, Fort Collins and more.
October Spotlight: FREE Events
HIIT @ Athleta Boulder (October 7 and 9 a.m.)
Fitbit Local’s Biking is Better When We’re Together @ City Park (October 8, 9:30 am)
Pints & Poses @ Better Buzz Yoga (October 14, 10:30 am)
Tip of the Month: Check out FitLo’s calendar for an aggregate listing of fitness classes and events around Denver. Lots of the pop-up free classes can be found here! Staying fit doesn’t have to be expensive
For more run clubs in the Denver area, check out meetup.com!
What is your favorite Denver Running Club or Fall Race?
Comment below!
